$15 - Gray Whale Watching Trip off Newport, Reg. $32

Every winter, pods of gray whales make the journey south from the Arctic to the warm waters along SoCal's coastline. Catch the majestic mammals in their peak migratory season (now through May) with this excursion that leaves from Newport Beach and travels 15 miles into the Pacific.

Why we love it

This 2.5-hour trip is $15 per person, or $28 for 2 people

The trip departs from Newport Beach and cruises 15 miles off the coast into the Pacific

When

Where

What's included

For $15 per person (reg. $32), spot whales and other marine life on a 2.5-hour narrated cruise. Two people can purchase tickets for $28 (reg. $64). Thanks to 15 miles of protected coastline surrounding Newport, the waters are rich with marine life. Gray whales can be up to 45 feet long and their distinctive V-shaped spout make them especially easy to spot from the boat. Ships hold more than 100 people and are fully equipped with indoor and outdoor seating, bathrooms and concession areas. Departure times change depending on the season; be sure to check the schedule before booking.

The fine print

Vouchers can be for the next available cruise date through July 17, 2013. Reservations are required. To make a reservation, call Ocean Explorer Cruises and reference voucher or book online. Please arrive 30 minutes before the boat departs. A fuel surcharge of $1-$4 may apply. Not valid on major holidays. Valid for adult or child admission; ages 2 and under need only pay a fuel fee of $3. See below for full terms and conditions.

See all terms

Vouchers can be for the next available cruise date through July 17, 2013. Reservations are required. To make a reservation, call Ocean Explorer Cruises and reference voucher or book online. Please arrive 30 minutes before the boat departs. Tours are subject to availability and are weather permitting. Valid during merchant's operating hours. Substitution of ship may apply. Must be used in 1 visit. Gratuity is not included. A fuel surcharge of $1-$4 may apply. This deal cannot be combined with any other offer. Not valid on major holidays. Valid for adult or child admission; ages 2 and under need only pay a fuel fee of $3.

The reviews below reflect feedback for all deals offered by this business.

Overall

Enjoyed Most

Other Comments

The crew was great and I enjoyed being out on the water. The day I chose to go was great weather and there were clear waters.

Nov 04, 2014
Petite
CA, United States

Easy on, easy off. Attempt to find dolphins and whales on part of crew. Beautiful day helped, but not their responsibility.

Captain was a bit over the top, but trying to please people

Nov 02, 2014
Sally
IL, United States

The courtesy of the captain and his crew

Oct 27, 2014
Peter
CA, United States

We got to see some whales

Oct 23, 2014
Kayleen
AZ, United States

Weather and nice staff. 1/2 off drinks at beginning of tour

Oct 21, 2014
Jannia
CA, United States

The staff

Oct 20, 2014
tasha
CA, United States

I bought this cruise for my daughter's 12th birthday and was very excited. Though the animal sightings were limited to dolphins, she loved the boat excursion and being out on the water and would do it all over again. Not to mention, the weather the weather was perfect!

The cruise started a half he later b/c of a previous cruise and the captain offered 50% off for beverages at the snack bar which was a nice surprise. At the end of the cruise, we were given a voucher for a return trip, which we will definitely use when we come back to visit.

Oct 19, 2014
Priscilla
AZ, United States

Warm weather, friendly crew

The captain was very accommodating, and focused on the passengers having a good time though the animal sightings were limited.

Oct 19, 2014
Priscilla
AZ, United States

The crew were pleasant and fun

Oct 15, 2014
Wendy

The crew

Saw two kinds of whales and lots of dolphins.

Oct 14, 2014
Anthony
CO, United States

Everything

Great Captain and crew, very enjoyable cruise. Will definitely come back again.

Oct 05, 2014
jeri
AZ, United States

Yes. other passengers were very nice and friendly

Staffs service need to be improved. The boat was 45 min late for its departure time and no staff would informed us of the status. It was a hot sunny day and many of us who stood in line (especially one with children) had difficulties not knowing when the boat will be arriving for the tour departure.
There were three staffs in a tiny office and they really didn't care. They had this 'don't bother me' attitude.

Oct 04, 2014
Chris
CA, United States

We had a great time! The ships Captain kept it fun and entertaining. We saw a rare baby Humpback Whale and hundreds of dolphins on our cruise. It was perfect weather and a perfect trip!
Thank you Ocean Exployer Cruises!

Sep 30, 2014
Russell
California, United States

Dolphins

Such a great time

Sep 28, 2014
Elizabeth
AZ, United States

Our Captain was informative AND entertaining. Perfect day

Sep 22, 2014
DIane
CA, United States

everything. from the minute I left my car at the valet parking, everyone was so very nice. the cruises was great. no long lines. just perfect. we are planning some fishing trips with Davey's. and more cruises. and renting some small boats. i'm glad to have had some one tells us about travel zoo.

excellent cruise. captain was great.

Sep 22, 2014
joanne
CA, United States

Awesome. 90 foot blue whale!

Excellent staff and experience.

Sep 18, 2014
Charlotte
California, United States

Crew was very friendly and fun. Boat was clean.

The gal that check us in was so nice, (short, long dark hair)... I lost my voucher and she let me retrieve it on her computer so I could make the trip. Thank You again.

Sep 17, 2014
Cynthia
CA, United States

Staff was amazing! It was really windy so trip got cut short BUT totally ok with that. We got a chance to see 100s of dolphins all at onCe. Staff was amazing super knowledgeable

Sep 16, 2014
Meshtli
CA, United States

The family time away from everything seeing seeing animals we never thought we would see. We saw a blue whale, blue puffer fish and a bunch of other awesome sea animals.

The cruise was very entertaining, the staff on board made it possible and they kept it fun. Not only was it an awesome sight seeing experience but we say a blue puffer fish and a blue whale.